Here’s everything you gotta do, where to stay, and the best time to visit.
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The first time I visited Aruba, I was two years old.
I’ve visited the island more than 30 times, continuing to make my annual pilgrimage each winter.
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Bucuti & Tara
Bucuti & Tarais the Caribbeans first and only certified carbon neutral hotel.
Boardwalk Boutique Hotel
Boardwalk Boutique Hotelis a family-run property in the middle of a former coconut plantation.
With just 46 private casitas, the resort offers a more intimate option for guests seeking more laid-back accommodations.
Courtesy of Bucuti & Tara Beach Resort
The casitas include kitchenettes, barbecues, and outdoor dining sets.
Renaissance Wind Creek Aruba
Renaissance Wind Creek Aruba Resortis located in downtown Oranjestad.
Guests can choose rooms in the adults-only Marina building or at the nearby Ocean Suites with direct beach access.
Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure
Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure
Best Things to Do
Visit Arikok National Park.
Sail on a catamaran cruise.
Stop at a local grocery store.
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Swim at Baby Beach.
Baby Beach is one of the best for families in Aruba.
The large, half-moon lagoon has shallow crystal-clear waters, paired with calm waves thanks to a human-made breakwater.
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The menu features the catch of the day think wahoo, snapper, or my favorite, barracuda.
Fish is ordered by the pound and eaten at picnic tables on the covered dock at the restaurant.
Theres truly nothing like sharing a bucket of Aruban-brewed Balashi beers and a basket of seafood from here.
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It’s worth noting Zeerover is closed on Mondays.
Eduardos Beach Shack
In recent years,Eduardos Beach Shackhas skyrocketed in popularity.
What started as a small smoothie shack on the beach now has three locations across the island.
Courtesy of Divi Aruba
Papiamento is one of my favorites for a unique Aruba experience says Feliciano.
This family-owned restaurant is also a museum, but it’s set inside an old Arubacunucuhouse.
The food is delicious … and it truly is a slice of Aruba.
The restaurant also featureskeshi yena, a stuffed cheese that’s Aruba’s national dish.
Prices will be lower, and youll find better deals for stays.
You’ll get the most for your money booking during this time at one ofAruba’s all-inclusive resorts.
From September to January, the island experiences its rainy season, which peaks in November.
These include lavish parades with elaborate floats, beautiful costumes, and live music.
There are several direct flights from major U.S. cities, primarily on the East Coast.
That being said, the time it takes to clear customs can be notoriously lengthy.
Most hotels have an on-site casino, in addition to several restaurants.
While this beach is beautiful, it’s often crowded.
Eagle Beach
Eagle Beachis where most of the timeshares and low-rise resorts can be found.
Conversely, its also a great place to pick up typical travel tchotchkes, like T-shirts and magnets.
The bus offers single-ride or day passes at just $10 per day.
